🚨 2020 Audi Q5: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Q5 (FY generation) uses a traditional center console gear selector with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ON position if battery has any charge (this may not be possible with a completely dead battery).
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the front.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small rubber or plastic cover cap.
- Insert the key blade or small screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If the shifter still will not move, maintain pressure on the override and attempt to rock the shifter slightly while pulling back.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base, toward the front of the console
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override is your only option. The mechanical override releases the solenoid that locks the shifter. You will need to physically press the override while manipulating the shifter. No ignition power is required for the mechanical override to function.